A Comedy of Errors– sponsored by Dell Software

Sometimes the default error messages returned by SQL Server are confusing at best, and completely misleading at worst. If dynamic SQL is introduced into the mix, the picture can get murkier and murkier. The project plan rarely allows time for developing a robust approach to error handling, and attempts by developers to introduce a modicum of consistency are often rebuffed by the complexities involved. This session will peep under the bonnet (in US English, “hood”) at some of the considerations to take into account when planning your error handling within your application's stored procedures. Topics covered will include TRY ... CATCH blocks, transactions, throwing errors and making your error messages informative and useful.

Andrew Whettam

Andrew Whettam is a Consultant for Information Management Group and has previously led the Database and Business Intelligence teams for 3M and Capital One respectively. He works with both transactional and analytical databases and has modelled, designed and developed database systems across a variety of industry sectors. Recent IMGROUP projects have included roles as Data Modeller for a major financial institution and Data Architect for a large conglomerate. Past experience includes a number of high profile government projects. He has worked with all versions of SQL Server since SQL 7.0.

Interested in Presenting to the DBA VG?

We can always use people to give a talk at one of our bi-monthly events. If you are interested in giving a presentation, please send your title, a brief abstract and a brief bio to Sharon Dooley.

Want to become a member of the DBA VG Leadership team?

Members of this team moderate meetings and interact with the speakers during the Q&A sessions. Contact Sharon Dooley, if you'd like to become part of the team.

Have a speaker to recommend?

Send the email address of the proposed speaker together with any relevant information about the speaker to Sharon Dooley.

Meeting Recordings

The DBA Virtual Group presentations are recorded. On the Meeting Archive page, you will find .WMV files that can be viewed on-line. Select the event you are interested in, click the Show More button if it is visible, and the recording and any associated files will be visible.

Regular Meeting Schedule

The DBA Virtual Group holds two regular webinars each month. The first one is on the second Wednesday at noon, Mountain time and the second one is on the fourth Wednesday at noon, Eastern time. These 1 - 1¼ hour presentations include slides, demos and a time for questions and answers. The meetings are recorded and archived.